What winter routine should you adopt?

What winter routine should you adopt?

Published on November 22, 2023, by Astrid

Reading time: 5 minutes

Winter is characterized by climatic conditions that can affect the skin: cold, wind, lack of light... These elements challenge the skin barrier, often leading to dehydrated epidermis, dry skin or a dull complexion. 

Faced with these challenges, the adoption of a winter routine adapted is essential. This routine isn't just limited to skincare. It also includes good daily actions to boost blood circulation, hydration and general well-being.

SUMMARY

The specificities of the skin in winter

In winter, the skin experiences variations in temperature and humidity. Cold and wind in particular cause vasoconstriction, reducing the supply of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells. Among the problems specific to winter, we can find:

Dehydration : Cold, dry air tends to dehydrate the skin, which can make it dry, dull and uncomfortable. Dehydration can cause tightness and itching.

Drought : The skin can become dry and rough in winter due to moisture loss. This can lead to dry patches, flaking and cracking, especially on the hands, legs and feet.

Increased sensitivity : Cold and wind can make the skin more sensitive and prone to redness and irritation. Sensitive skin may react more pronounced in winter.

Chapped : Lips and skin areas exposed to cold, such as cheeks, ears and hands, are prone to chapping.

Dull complexion : Skin may appear dull and lack radiance in winter due to reduced vitamin D intake and limited sun exposure.

Acne : In some people, cold weather can lead to acne breakouts due to increased sebum production to compensate for dehydration.

It is therefore necessary to adapt your beauty routine by favoring specific treatments that protect the skin from these inconveniences.

Your Skin During the Winter

The ideal skincare routine to fully enjoy winter

To reduce the unwanted impacts of the winter season on the skin, we turn to richer moisturizing products with comforting textures. We also opt for gentle formulations which will not attack already sensitized skin.


The steps of a winter skincare routine

Gentle cleaning : To use a gentle cleanser, without soap and without sulfated surfactants, like L'Cleansing Emulsion, to eliminate dust, makeup and impurities without drying the skin and to respect the hydrolipidic film. Avoid hot water, which can further dehydrate the skin.

Exfoliation : Reduce the frequency of exfoliation. Once a week with a gentle exfoliant may be enough to remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal.

Hydration : Use a slightly richer moisturizer in winter to lock in moisture. Opt for rich creams, as The Cream, or more textured lotions that help prevent water loss. 

Serum : Apply a hydrating serum to strengthen the skin barrier. THE serums containing hyaluronic acid, as The Serum, are particularly effective in retaining moisture, boosting and plumping the skin.

Targeted care : Use products specific to the skin's needs, such as eye creams, anti-aging treatments or products for sensitive skin. Using a nourishing mask once a week can also be beneficial.

Lip care : Protect your lips with a moisturizing lip balm to avoid chapping.

Sunscreen : Apply sunscreen, even in winter, especially in the mountains. Skin is still exposed to UV rays, and reflection from snow can increase exposure.

It is also necessary to think about taking care of the rest of the body. Thick creams, body butters or dry oils are perfect for good hydration in winter. Apply immediately after showering when skin is still slightly damp to seal in moisture.



Choose the right products

In winter, daily care should be chosen, as usual, to suit each skin type (if in doubt, do not hesitate to consult the article describing different skin types).

Dry skin : favor very hydrating and nourishing treatments. Olive oil or shea butter are excellent allies.

Oily skin : opt for products that regulate excess sebum without drying out the skin. 

Mixed skin : choose specific treatments that will treat each area of ​​the face. For example, a light moisturizer for the T-zone and a richer treatment for the cheeks.

Normal skin : focus on soft and soothing products, a little more hydrating than usual.

Remember to adapt these tips to your specific needs. the condition of your skin.

The Ideal Skincare Routine to Fully Enjoy Winter

Our tips for taking care of your skin in winter

In addition to choosing a skincare routine, certain daily actions can positively or negatively affect the quality of your skin. Here are some more general tips.



Actions to avoid when hydrating the skin

Hydration is a key part of your winter beauty routine, but certain mistakes are often made that can compromise the effectiveness of a well-chosen routine.

Neglecting internal hydration : good hydration of the skin also requires good internal hydration. It is therefore crucial to drink enough water.

Use hot water to wash your face: this practice can actually dry out the skin by attacking the hydrolipidic film.

Drying your face too harshly : such a practice can damage the skin and affect its hydration.

Neglecting internal hydration : Heating tends to dry out the surrounding air. Our advice to avoid this inconvenience: place a small dish of water near the radiators.

 


Tips to Avoid Dry, Dull Skin in Winter Everyday

To avoid dry and dull skin in winter, here are some additional practical tips:

Regulate the temperature inside : Avoid overheating its interior. A temperature around 20°C is ideal to avoid drying out the skin.

Change your bath routine : Prefer lukewarm showers to hot baths which can dehydrate the skin. 

Focus on a balanced diet : A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants can contribute to healthy skin.

Massage your skin regularly: Massaging the skin is the best way to stimulate its blood flow and provide it with the nutrients it needs.


Our last tip: make your routine a real moment of cocooning. This will allow you to add a touch of comfort during the cold and rainy months, while helping you maintain radiant skin despite the winter.

Additional Tips for a Good Winter Skincare Routine